The entire universe operates as a precise system where absolutely nothing exists by accident. Every single element of creation, even those that appear negative, destructive, or contrary to the divine will, holds a specific and necessary role within a grander plan.
The primary approach among commentators is that all things were ultimately formed for God. In this view, every detail of the natural world and human history exists to testify to His immense power, expand His honor, and inspire praise and glory [רש״י, מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד]. Alternatively, others explain that everything was fashioned for its own specific, internal purpose. Every single entity has a distinct reason that justifies its existence [עמנואל הרומי, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This profound design embraces even creatures that appear entirely useless or harmful, as they are actually inseparable components of a perfect and complete creation [אלשיך].
This perspective naturally raises a difficult question regarding human choices: how does a wicked person fit into such a purposeful system, particularly when they achieve success while disrespecting God? The commentators explain that the wicked ultimately serve the divine plan in two primary ways, specifically leading toward a time of disaster or ruin.
First, a wicked individual can act as an instrument in the hands of God to deliver punishment to others. The power and temporary success granted to them are actually preparations, shaping them into a tool of discipline and anger for the day when disaster is decreed upon the world or upon other corrupt individuals [מצודת דוד, עמנואל הרומי, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. When God determines that destruction must occur, He deliberately selects wicked people to carry out the task. It is fitting that a harsh decree be executed by someone who is already guilty, rather than by someone innocent [אלשיך].
Second, the purpose can center on the ultimate fate of the wicked person. God may allow them to prosper and live a long life, but this is not a true reward. Instead, they are being preserved for a designated day of reckoning where they will face their absolute downfall. This eventual collapse is designed to reveal God's perfect justice, sanctify His name, and provide a powerful moral lesson for all of humanity [רש״י, רלב״ג, מלבי״ם, עמנואל הרומי].
However, there is a fundamental difference in how God relates to good and evil. While positive blessings flow directly from His active desire and intention, suffering and punishment do not mean that God desires the death of the wicked. Instead, these harsh outcomes are simply the necessary, unavoidable consequences of a person's own bad choices, dictated by the strict rules of justice [אמרי דעת].